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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get the most up-to-date information about the national lakeshore?
Take the time to look through this website, particularly the "Plan Your Visit" section and any "Alerts" that are listed. We try to post changes and updates as quickly as possible. Also, call the main visitor center at (906) 387-3700, open daily 9 am to 5 pm (reduced days and hours in winter).

What are the Pictured Rocks?
The Pictured Rocks are sandstone cliffs rising 50 to 200 feet directly up from Lake Superior. The cliffs begin just east of Sand Point and stretch for about 15 miles. Mineral seepage creates the cliffs' vibrant colors, which are best seen from the water. Red and orange are iron, green and blue are copper, black is manganese, and white is limonite. There are no pictographs (rock paintings) or petroglyphs (rock peckings) within the national lakeshore.

What is the best way to view the Pictured Rocks?
A National Park Service authorized concessioner-operated non-stop boat cruise offers an easy, comprehensive, and close-up view of the most colorful sections of the Pictured Rocks cliffs. Guided kayak tours are also available. Significant portions of the cliffs may be reached via hiking, particularly the Chapel-Mosquito loop trail. You may also drive directly to Miners Castle, which offers views of this famous sandstone landmark (including a handicap accessible viewing platform).

How's the weather?
Lake Superior generally keeps summers cooler and winters warmer than inland areas. Summertime highs can reach the 90s with much cooler evening temperatures. Daytime temperatures in the 60s to low 80s are more common. Typically, winter temperatures are below freezing. Average annual snow total is between 140 - 160 inches. Layered clothing for changing weather is recommended. more...

Are pets allowed in the park?
Pets are permitted in designated developed areas of the lakeshore including picnic areas, the Sand Point and Miners Beach areas, Miners Castle, drive-in campgrounds, and the Lake Superior beaches directly in front of the drive-in campgrounds. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times, even on beaches or while swimming. Pets are not permitted in the lakeshore backcountry or backcountry campsites but they are allowed on some shorter trails. more...

When is black fly season?
As a general rule, black fly season runs from mid-May through mid-June. In addition, you may experience mosquitos, no-see-ums, stable flies (most active in hot humid weather!), and other biting insects when you visit Pictured Rocks. Be prepared with insect repellent and protective clothing. more...

When is peak color season?
Autumn colors are usually at their peak either the last week in September or the first week in October. The "peak" weekend is hard to predict. Consider planning your visit earlier rather than later. Remaining green leaves enhance the autumn colors. A heavy rain or windy day can knock down many of the autumn leaves if your visit is later. A second color season when the tamaracks turn gold occurs in late October - early November.

Do your campgrounds have electricity or showers?
The drive-in campgrounds at Pictured Rocks are rustic, and do not have electrical hookups, hot water, sewer hookups, or telephones. Cell phone service is typically not available throughout much of the national lakeshore. more...

How can we reserve a campsite?
Go to the Camping page for information on reserving a campsite in our Drive-in Campgrounds. Go to the Backcountry Camping page for information about reserving a (hike-in) site in the backcountry. When our campgrounds are full, please refer to the Nearby Campgrounds webpage for other options in the area.

Are campfires allowed in the backcountry campgrounds?
Campfires are only permitted in the community metal fire rings within the campgrounds; use only dead and down wood. Small backpacking stoves may be used at individual campsites. Fires are not permitted at the Chapel Beach and Mosquito River backcountry campgrounds. more...

Is drinking water available in the backcountry?
Water from streams and lakes is available at most backcountry campgrounds. Water must be boiled for one full minute or filtered through a 1-micron filter before it is used. Water is not available at the Cliffs, Potato Patch, or Masse Homestead campgrounds. more...

Can we pick blueberries?
Fruits, berries, and mushrooms may be gathered by hand for personal use. Gathering of native fruits, berries, and mushrooms is limited to one gallon per person. Apples may be gathered in quantities up to five gallons per week per person. Gathering for commercial use is prohibited. And of course, picking flowers or removing living plants is not allowed.

What about drone use?
Recreational use of drones is not allowed at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Drone use is prohibited at every NPS unit (with a few limited exceptions) throughout the country. more...